“The last four legs were great, I couldn’t really ask for a better finish to a match.

“I always believe, so I wasn’t too worried when I was behind but my finishes weren’t good enough at the start.

“I kept missing chances to level the match and putting in bad scores when it mattered but in the end it all came good,” said Smith.

The former World Youth Champion will now face Gary Anderson in the last four after the World Matchplay Champion overcame Damon Heta 10-7 at the Hisense Arena.

Heta had produced a shock of sorts the night before in beating best friend Kyle Anderson but was unable to repeat the performance against the Australian namesake.

Heta did manage to hold his own in the opening stages of the match, going in to the break trailing 4-3.

However, Anderson came out after the stoppage with the bit between his teeth racing in to an 8-3 lead and taking firm control of the match.

The Australian did manage to produce a comeback though, winning four of the next five legs to close the gap to two and give himself hope.

Anderson did then seal the deal in the next leg but spoke of his disappointment after the match.

“That wasn’t anywhere near as good as last night and I got away with it a bit,” said an honest Anderson.

“Damon will be disappointed because he didn’t score as well as he did against Kyle last night but the boy can play.

“I just need to get some rest and come back tomorrow and see how we go, Michael and I obviously know each other very well but if I play as well as I can I win, if I don’t then it’s an early night for me.”

The Melbourne Darts Masters concludes on Sunday with the semi-finals taking place at the Hisense Arena before the decider is played out to crown a champion.

Melbourne Darts Masters: Schedule & Results

Friday August 10(7pm local time, 10am UK time)First Round (Best of 11 legs)